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Immunization information is constantly changing and updated based on the latest research. Use this page to find the latest AAP information on what's going on in the news.

Meningococcal Outbreaks

Princeton University has been experiencing an outbreak of meningococcal disease since spring 2013. All seven of the cases were caused by meningococcal bacteria known as serogroup B ("strain" B). Working with CDC and the New Jersey Department of Health, the University has decided to make arrangements to provide their students access to a serogroup B meningococcal vaccine as soon as possible. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is allowing the use of the vaccine at Princeton University under an Investigational New Drug application. Over 5,000 students were vaccinated at Princeton in December. Princeton University, the New Jersey Department of Health and CDC are all offering information. The CDC will continue to update and add to the questions and answers on the CDC webpage as needed.

The University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) is also experiencing a meningococcal outbreak. In November 2013, 4 cases of meningitis caused by meningococcal bacteria serotype B were confirmed. Like at the Princeton University, CDC, with support from UCSB, and the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the California Department of Public Health, is moving forward with an Investigational New Drug application with the FDA with the goal of being able to use a serogroup B meningococcal vaccine that is licensed for use in Europe, Canada, and Australia in response to the UCSB outbreak. Visit the CDC to learn more about this outbreak.

HPV Vaccine Rates are Stagnant

On July 26, 2013, the CDC released an MMWR on HPV, showing low, stagnating vaccination rates. Pediatricians have a unique opportunity to address missed opportunities and vaccinate adolescents to protect against many forms of cancer. Resources for pediatricians to reduce office barriers and address parents' common concerns related to HPV vaccine available on the AAP HPV page.

VFC Storage Changes

On August 21, 2013, The CDC released changes to the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program that would have required VFC providers to store VFC vaccines separately from vaccines purchased through the state, 317 funds, CHIP, or those purchased privately. The initial start date for these changes was October 1, 2013. In a letter to the CDC, the AAP advocated that these changes be reconsidered, as they increased the burden of pediatricians to maintain at least 3 different stocks of vaccine and are not the most efficient way to account for different stock. The CDC has since agreed to postpone these changes until January 1, 2015.